What Fees Do Sellers Pay When Selling a House?

When it comes to traditional real estate transactions, the process of selling a house is often more intricate than many people anticipate. One frequently asked question is, “What fees do sellers pay when selling a house?” Understanding these costs can help sellers prepare financially, ensuring a smoother sales process.

Want to skip the fees? Contact a real estate investor like Third Coast Home Buyers for a cash offer on your house.

Fees on the Traditional Market

Real Estate Agent Commission

In most real estate transactions, the seller pays the commission for both their agent and the buyer’s agent. This fee is usually between 5% and 6% of the home’s selling price, and it’s split evenly between the two agents. For instance, if you’re selling your house for $300,000, you should expect to pay between $15,000 to $18,000 in commissions.

Closing Costs

Another significant expense that sellers bear are closing costs. These include title insurance, escrow fees, notary fees, transfer tax, and attorney fees if applicable. While closing costs vary considerably based on the state and the specifics of the sale, they typically amount to about 1-3% of the sale price.

Property Taxes

Depending on when you sell your home, you might need to cover a portion of the year’s property taxes. The exact amount will depend on the closing date and the period that the property tax bill covers.

Home Inspection and Repair Costs

While traditionally borne by buyers, a pre-listing home inspection could be a strategic move for sellers, offering a chance to uncover and address any potential issues before listing the property. Should issues be found, sellers may choose to undertake necessary repairs to improve the home’s marketability. Additionally, some buyers may negotiate for sellers to cover repair costs uncovered by their inspection, although this varies from deal to deal.

Home Staging and Marketing

To make a house appealing to potential buyers, sellers often invest in professional staging. Costs here can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Marketing expenses, such as professional photos and listings, should also be accounted for.

Capital Gains Tax

If you make a profit from selling your house, you may be liable for capital gains tax. However, there are exclusions available if it’s your primary residence and you meet certain criteria. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.

Loan Payoff Costs

If there’s a mortgage on the property, the balance of the loan will be paid off from the sale proceeds. Note that some loans may have prepayment penalties.

Moving Expenses

Although not a selling cost per se, don’t forget to factor in moving expenses, as they can add up.

Selling to a Real Estate Investor: A Fee-Free Alternative

Another option to consider when selling your house is to sell directly to a real estate investor, like Third Coast Home Buyers. This path can be a game-changer for sellers who are keen to avoid the fees associated with traditional sales.

Unlike conventional home sales that involve multiple parties and various fees, selling your home to a real estate investor can significantly simplify the process.

No Commissions or Agent Fees

When selling to a real estate investor, there’s no need for a real estate agent, which means you won’t have to pay any commissions. This approach can save you a substantial amount, especially considering that commission fees typically account for 5-6% of the home’s sale price.

No Closing Costs

Additionally, reputable real estate investors often cover the closing costs. That’s right – no need to worry about the 1-3% of the sale price that typically goes towards closing costs when selling through traditional routes.

No Repair Costs

When selling to an investor, there’s no need for you to carry out repairs or even a home inspection. Investors purchase properties ‘as is’, meaning they buy your home in its current condition, saving you potential repair costs.

Quick and Convenient

Selling to a real estate investor not only helps you bypass various fees, but it can also expedite the selling process. Without the need for staging, open houses, or waiting for buyer financing, the sale can close much more quickly.

So, What Fees Can You Expect in a Traditional Sale?

While selling a house comes with associated costs, understanding what fees sellers pay when selling a house can help navigate the process more smoothly and set realistic expectations for net proceeds. Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate professional can offer invaluable guidance in understanding these costs and effectively navigating the sale of your home.

Remember, every sale is unique, with different factors influencing costs. The amounts quoted here are averages or typical ranges and may differ based on location, property condition, market trends, and other aspects.

Want to skip the lengthy process of traditional sales? Third Coast Home Buyers are here to help. We provide fair, transparent cash offers that aim to reduce your out-of-pocket costs, taking the stress out of selling your home.